Selenium
PJS Element Pack Selenium
5.00
Selenium
Selenium (Se) atomic number 34, PJS considers it to be a Trace element as it plays a crucial role in the biological and metabolic process in corals and is used by all reef organisms and is measured by ppt in seawater. Selenium belongs in the polyatomic non-metal group, along with calcium, sulfur and phosphorous and ALL are naturally found in seawater. In reef aquariums, maintaining proper selenium levels is important for skeletal, biological, coral color, vitality and healthy coral growth, and supplementation will be necessary, especially in heavily SPS stocked tanks.
Selenium Key Roles
Coral Skeleton Formation:
Selenium helps in proper skeletal calcification, formation and tissue basal connection.
Biological / Metabolism:
Selenium is essential for metabolic processes and enzyme production. It is used by zooxanthellae in photosynthesis. Selenium is required for conversion of nutrients, fatty acids and proteins to energy process for living things for growth , tissue repair, digestion, reproduction and must be maintained with all other within this group.
Selenium is metabolized by corals and by all organisms in the entire ecosystem including denitrification and conversion fatty acids to energy.
Enhanced Coral Coloration:
Selenium is used at a cellular level enhancing vivid coloration and intensity of corals.
Aids in UV protection for corals and zooxanthellae.
Protection Against Parasites:
Selenium supports the overall health, promoting resistance to parasites.
Selenium Levels
Natural Seawater Levels:
Selenium levels in natural seawater typically .00018 mg/L or 180 parts per trillion (ppt).
Target Aquarium Levels:
Many reef aquarists maintain selenium levels below this natural range.
PJS recommends aim for a selenium concentration of .0003-.00045 mg/L. This is a very small range!
Consumption Rate:
Fast.
Selenium Testing
ALWAYS test selenium levels in your reef aquarium before supplementing to determine if dosing is needed to avoid overdosing.
Testing:
Regularly test selenium levels using a reliable test kit or by sending water samples for ICP testing
Selenium Dosing
Start slowly by beginning with a low, gradual dose over days avoiding any sudden shifts in water chemistry and monitor the effects.
Methods:
Selenium can be dosed via liquid additives.
Consider Advanced Methods:
Dosing stock solutions with pumps and continuous drip systems can be used to maintain precise selenium levels.
Considerations
Avoid overdosing, as it can lead to imbalances and become toxic to corals and everything in your tank. LPS and SPS corals selenium is essential in controlled levels. Selenium is essential for corals to spawn. Selenium is essential for many metabolic processes and enzyme production. Selenium is used by all living organisms, aiding in a balanced eco system. Selenium is highly recommended for high PAR lighting. Selenium has high antioxidant properties. Foods may contain levels of selenium that can influence your parameters. Dosing selenium, more is not the answer, time is the answer. Dosing selenium in conjunction with amino acids and nutrients is essential for proper utilization. Dosing selenium can influence consumption of iodine, calcium and many other elements. Deficiency will lead to reduced and improper growth, sensitivity to lights, imped the ability to produce or consume nutrients, impacting the symbiotic relationship of corals and zooxanthellae. Overdosing will lead to tissue damage, tissue detachment and coral bleaching.